The Best Preschools in Gilman, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Gilman. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Little Learners Preschool
Foley Public Schools
Little Learners Preschool operates through Foley Public Schools and serves the Gilman area with comprehensive early childhood education. The program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, social-emotional development, and foundational academic skills. Certified early childhood educators provide structured curriculum aligned with Minnesota Early Learning Standards. The facility maintains excellent safety records and offers developmental screenings to ensure each child's progress. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and qualified teaching staff.
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New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Enterprises
As part of Minnesota's largest childcare provider, this St. Cloud location serves families from Gilman and surrounding communities. The preschool program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through research-based curriculum. Facilities feature secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and highly qualified teaching staff with early childhood credentials. The center maintains strong parent communication and offers flexible scheduling options. Multiple parents note the consistent quality and engaging learning environment.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
This nationally accredited KinderCare location provides early education services to families in the Gilman area. The center offers comprehensive Early Foundations curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social studies. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with small class sizes and individualized attention. Safety features include secured entry systems, regular health inspections, and emergency preparedness training. Parent reviews highlight the structured learning environment and professional staff with low teacher turnover rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Gilman, MN:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Gilman, MN?
In Gilman and the surrounding Benton County area, preschool costs can vary significantly. Community-based or in-home programs may range from $150-$250 per month, while more structured center-based programs can be $200-$350 monthly. It's important to inquire about the Minnesota Early Learning Scholarship program, as many local providers accept this assistance to help reduce costs for eligible families.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Gilman?
All licensed preschools in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and review any past licensing violations through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. Additionally, many local programs participate in Minnesota's Parent Aware star rating system, which is a reliable indicator of program quality and school readiness.
What types of preschool programs are available in Gilman, given its small-town setting?
Gilman offers a mix of options, including in-home family child care programs that often provide preschool curriculum, and the Gilman Elementary School may offer early childhood screening and preschool special education services. Many families also consider programs in nearby larger towns like Foley or Princeton, which may have center-based preschools, so factoring in transportation is key.
When should I apply for preschool enrollment in Gilman, and what is the typical process?
Due to limited slots in a small community, it's advisable to start inquiring and applying 6-12 months before your desired start date, often in the preceding fall or winter. The process typically involves contacting the provider directly for a tour and application. For school-district-connected options, contact the Milaca School District (which includes Gilman) to learn about their specific enrollment timelines and screening dates.
What should I look for regarding safety and preparedness in a Gilman preschool?
Beyond standard licensing, ask providers about their emergency plans for severe weather common to Central Minnesota, such as tornadoes and winter storms. Inquire about staff training in pediatric first aid/CPR and their child-to-staff ratios to ensure adequate supervision. A quality program will also have clear policies on health, hygiene, and safe indoor/outdoor play areas appropriate for the region's climate.
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